National screening for bowel cancer

Eligible participants are sent a free, easy to use screening kit that can be completed at home. Positive test results are notified to local teams in each state and territory and participants are encouraged to follow up with health services.

The program (external site) currently invites Australian men and women turning 50, 55, 60, 65, 70 and 74 to participate in the program, using records obtained from Medicare or Veterans’ Affairs.

Over the next four years, more age groups will be added to the program, with two-yearly screening soon available for all Australians between the ages of 50 and 74.

In 2016, 72 and 64 year olds will be included

In 2017, 54, 58 and 68 year olds will be included

In 2018 – 2020, people aged 52, 56, 62 and 66 will be included in the program.